It seems as though the Barrow County high schools have been in a buzz about recent procedure changes at the Apalachee campus per AHS principal Glenn Wilson in a video message to the students at the beginning of the second semester of the 2012 school year.

In the video, Wilson lists out the following minor and non-negotiable changes in procedure: students must be appropriately dressed for school upon arrival to campus (they should consult the student agenda of the dress code if needed), there will be no electronic devices seen or heard between the hours of 8:20 and 3:20 however, music can be played during the student’s lunch block (faculty and staff will ask students to give them their electronic devices if seen or heard at any other time), and finally students are to remain seated during their lunch period except for trips to vending machines or the bathrooms.

While all of these procedures are outlined in the school agendas, it is up to the principal as to how they are enforced. As a recent graduate of Winder-Barrow High School, I can attest that I have spent four years abiding by these county policies and procedures.

I can see how students at both schools might be a bit taken aback by Wilson’s video broadcast; however I do not think he is out of line. As principal it is up to his discretion, and as he is starting his second semester at Apalachee I feel he is trying to get his bearings and establish himself as principal.

I understand the frustration of the students. The “no electronics during school hours” is a little intense. I believe it is important to have cell phones in case of emergencies. My parents worry about me when I drive to school, and even now that I am in college I still call or text them to let them know I made it safely. The roads are dangerous and anything can happen, so all students who have cell phones should be allowed to keep them on their person. That being said, I do not believe they should be used in class. It is downright rude and disrespectful to the teachers and fellow classmates. Even my professors will kick students out for using their phones in class. If you’re going to be on your electronics in class, why did you even show up to begin with?

I’m in college and my professors are in charge of their classroom rules. All of them prohibit the use of cell phones and electronics during the class. In a way, it prepares students for real life. You can’t pull out your phone and play Angry Birds during a business meeting, correct? I think by not allowing students to use their cell phones and mp3 players in class, the high schools are preparing teenagers for life on the outside.

As far as dress code goes, college is more relaxed and has virtually no rules on dress code because college is not government mandated. In public school, students of all backgrounds and beliefs are all forced under one roof for an education. I don’t think it is wrong to enforce a stricter dress code for offensive logos and messages. It is for the safety of the students. If you have a problem with something in college, you have the option to change it. Under the public school housing, students do not have that option so the administration has to manage everyone in order to maintain a peaceful learning experience.

Another part of the dress code is important to note and is the set of rules pertaining to distracting clothes such as baggy pants, halter-tops, mini skirts, and spandex. Most students in high school are still minors and the administration does not want them dressing up resembling Julia Roberts in “Pretty Woman.” What it all comes down to is teaching students that there is a time and a place for every outfit. School is a place where you need to look presentable. In the business world students will have to dress appropriately as well. It’s best to start these lessons early to get into the habit.

The one aspect of Wilson’s message has me on the fence. While I support enforcing dress code and prohibiting the use of electronics I am not quite sure how I feel on the lunch seat matter. I see the lunch period as the part of the day that students have to relax and meet up with friends. They should be able to socialize with them, which they do and they can still listen to music. However, making students remain in a seat all lunch seems a bit elementary to me. As a former high school student, I would be offended that I was being treated like a child. But, at the same time I always complained that people were always up and walking around. The lunchroom is a crowded place and walking around makes it more apparent. I’m not sure how I feel on this change in procedure yet.

All in all, I’m sure many students do not agree with me and I respect that. Wait until you step into college and the real world and I think you’ll change your tune. I think Principal Wilson did not make any drastic changes and if students just listen respectfully it won’t seem as bad. High school is trying to prep you for the real world with these policies and procedures. Trust me kids, you will get your freedom soon enough. I know looking back on my high school experience I definitely see the benefits of these guidelines.

Jessica Brown is the staff photographer for the Barrow Journal. You can reach her at jessica@barrowjournal.com.

Principal at AHS did not mention anything or procedures concerning drugs or gangs,is he really telling us that electronic devices are more important than cleaning up the school?
I can see the electronics are distractions sometimes, but how about cleaning up the high school first. This is not news to Barrow citizens we all know about the gangs in our schools and drugs but hey as long as we all put down our devices and dress right the schools will be safe- yeah ok!

Good for Mr. Wilson, that school (WBHS needs it bad) was in need of more discipline.

Now Michelle, Im sure somewhere common sense will prevail and in the handbook it outlines any crimimal behavior will not be tolerated, so the rest of society would think that would include drugs. The whole part of discipline is compliance, once you have that, the school will run smoother and those committing such crimes will not conform easily, thus making it easier to send them home where they will be the future job security for police

As a parent od a WBHS student, I can for a FACT tell you they do not follow those same policies and procedures. I have been at the school at all hours morning and afternoon, and kids are constantly on their phones, and texting, and on thier I-Pads and ect... My son says that some teachers let students put in one ear phone IN CLASS. Really you can concentrate on school work with music beating in your ear. Jessica you made some very adult and responsible observations, and I wish WBHS would follow suit. Too much playing around over there!!!

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